The Dictionary of Human Resource Management is an authoritative source
of precise and easy to understand definitions of words, terms, and
phrases that are encountered in the fields of human resource management,
personnel, and industrial relations. It has been compiled to demystify
and make accessible the vast specialist language that has developed
within the human resource discipline. The dictionary includes over 1,400
entries, with 1,250 full definitions. These cover the latest
contemporary terms and management buzzwords; key theoretical terms and
concepts from academics and consultants; jargon from the present and the
past; technical terms used by practicing personnel/HR managers and
trade unionists; major policies, practices, and institutions; and legal
terms. The authors also provide a full list of abbreviations and
acronyms and a thematic categorization of the main concepts. In
compiling the dictionary the authors were aware that often there is no
one agreed definition of a term, but instead various competing ideas or
interpretations.

To take this into account, the entries differ
in length, and the various theoretical, political, and other viewpoints
are fully represented. There are also plenty of links to other terms, so
that readers can explore related ideas and concepts. While aimed
primarily at MBA, specialist Masters and undergraduate students who need
a book of clear, concise definitions to complement their core course
textbook, the dictionary is also ideal for anyone studying for
professional qualificiations in human resources/personnel management;
busy human resource pratitioners who need a quick reference source;
trade unionists who need to cut through the management jargon; and
students whose first language is not English.